The United Arab Emirates has publicly appealed for calm following a new round of military action by its regional ally, Saudi Arabia, in Yemen. The call for 'restraint and wisdom' came on December 30, 2025, after Saudi forces conducted a series of strikes.
Saudi Action and UAE's Diplomatic Response
Saudi state television broadcast footage on Tuesday, December 30, which it claimed showed a shipment of weapons and armored vehicles originating from the United Arab Emirates in the Yemeni port city of Mukalla. The context and precise timing of the shipment were not fully detailed in the initial reports. In response to the subsequent Saudi military operations, the UAE issued its statement urging moderation, highlighting a moment of visible diplomatic caution between the two Gulf powers who have historically been aligned in the Yemen conflict.
Background of Regional Involvement
The conflict in Yemen, which began in 2014, has seen a Saudi-led coalition, which previously included the UAE as a key partner, intervene against Houthi rebels. The UAE officially scaled back its direct military involvement several years prior to this incident, but remains an influential player in the region's complex political and security landscape. This public call for restraint underscores the ongoing delicate balance of interests among coalition partners and the persistent volatility of the situation on the ground.
Implications for Gulf Cooperation
The UAE's statement is a significant diplomatic signal. While not condemning Saudi Arabia's actions outright, the explicit plea for restraint and wisdom suggests a desire to de-escalate immediate tensions and potentially distance itself from the latest escalation. Analysts will be watching closely to see if this marks a subtle shift in the strategic approach of key Gulf states toward the protracted war in Yemen, which has created one of the world's worst humanitarian crises.
The incident and the public response highlight the intricate and sometimes fragile nature of alliances in the Middle East, where national interests and regional stability are in constant negotiation. The development on December 30 adds another layer to the multi-faceted conflict, with international observers hoping the call for wisdom is heeded to prevent further suffering.
